Food Assistance Resources in Connecticut

Last updated September 11, 2026

Connecticut residents facing food insecurity have access to a range of federal and state-administered programs that can help put meals on the table. Whether you are dealing with a short-term crisis or an ongoing budget squeeze, programs like SNAP and WIC provide critical support, and local food pantries and community organizations fill gaps that government programs may not cover.

The single fastest way to find food help in Connecticut is to call or text 2-1-1, operated by United Way of Connecticut. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 2-1-1 Connecticut connects callers to nearby food pantries, soup kitchens, SNAP application assistance, and emergency food boxes. Many callers are connected to services the same day.

If you are helping someone apply for food benefits, the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) oversees SNAP and several other assistance programs. Applications can be completed online through the ConneCT portal, by phone, or in person at a local DSS office. Eligibility is based on household size, income, and other factors set by federal and state guidelines.

Key programs in Connecticut

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – Connecticut DSS

Monthly electronic benefits (loaded onto an EBT card) that can be used to buy groceries at most supermarkets and many farmers markets across Connecticut.

How to access: Apply online at the Connecticut DSS ConneCT portal (https://connect.ct.gov), call DSS at 1-855-626-6632, or visit a local DSS office. You can also get application help by calling 2-1-1.

WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) – Connecticut WIC Program

Provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals for income-eligible pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5.

How to access: Contact the Connecticut WIC Program through the Department of Public Health. To find the nearest WIC clinic, call 1-800-741-2280 or search the clinic locator at ct.gov/dph. Bring proof of identity, residency, income, and a healthcare referral if available.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) via Connecticut Food Banks

Federally funded commodity foods distributed free of charge through food banks and pantries to low-income households. Connecticut's food banks include Foodshare (serving Hartford and Tolland counties), Connecticut Foodshare's broader network, and the Food Bank of Western Connecticut.

How to access: Call 2-1-1 or visit the Foodshare website (foodshare.org) to find a partner pantry or mobile distribution near you. No advance appointment is typically required at many sites, though hours and requirements vary by location.

School Breakfast and National School Lunch Program – Connecticut State Department of Education

Provides free or reduced-price meals to income-eligible children during the school day. Connecticut has expanded school meal access and some districts offer universal free meals; contact your child's school for current local policy.

How to access: Apply through your child's school district at the start of each school year. For statewide information, contact the Connecticut State Department of Education's Bureau of Health/Nutrition, Family Services & Adult Education, or call 2-1-1 for referrals.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for Older Adults

Provides monthly boxes of nutritious USDA commodity foods (canned goods, grains, peanut butter, and more) to income-eligible adults age 60 and older.

How to access: Availability varies by county. Call 2-1-1 to find a CSFP distribution site near you, or contact your local Area Agency on Aging through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116. Some senior centers and food banks administer this program locally.

Food Assistance resources for Connecticut

211 (United Way)

Nationwide

Free, confidential referral line for food, and other essential local services. Dial 211.

211
Visit

Feeding America

Nationwide

Nationwide network of food banks connecting people to local pantries and meal programs.

1-800-771-2303
Visit

SNAP (USDA Food & Nutrition Service)

Nationwide

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — monthly benefits to buy food for eligible low-income individuals and families.

Visit
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